Retailers have unique access control needs as they try to secure buildings and the valuable items inside, often with nothing more than locks and keys. Traditional locks and keys provide a thin layer of security as keys can be lost, loaned, stolen or duplicated. In the typical scenario, true inventory protection is a disparate layer managed by the intrusion system, which can be operated by anyone with the PIN code. With multi-tiered systems, access control and intrusion, many retailers must separately determine how to control who enters and who is authorized to turn off the intrusion. The challenging of managing and maintaining these separate systems often results in numerous “false alarm” incidences.

The multiple layers of access control can add up to hundreds of access points; all with their distinct vulnerabilities. And while they are trying to keep stores secure, the store does not stand still. Access control must secure valuables without hindering operational efficiency, providing a perfect blend of security and functionality. Adding to the difficulty of securing these dynamic environments, retail stores must manage large, flexible workforces with typically high turnover. These factors combine to make retail one of the most difficult industries to secure with traditional access control.